Self-exams an essential part of breast cancer prevention, detection

The best defense against breast cancer is prevention and early detection. In addition to annual mammograms, women have another valuable tool for early detection of breast cancer, and it’s available — literally — at their fingertips:

Breast self-exams. “Breast cancer can occur between mammography screenings,” says Susan Brake, manager of Kettering Health Breast Centers. “A self-exam may detect a change before a woman is due for her next yearly screening.”

Women should begin performing breast self-exams in their 20s. “Monthly breast self-exams give women awareness of what is normal for them,” says Susan. “It also helps women become familiar with how their breasts feel and look. This enables women to detect early changes.”

In addition to monthly self-exams, women should have a clinical breast exam performed regularly by their healthcare provider — every three years while in their 20s and 30s, and annually starting at age 40.

How to perform a breast self-exam

When examining your breasts, use your left hand to check your right breast, and your right hand to check your left breast. Use your middle three fingers.

A thorough self-exam has three parts:

1. While lying on your back,

■ In a circular or up-anddown pattern, press using light, medium and firm pressure. “It is important to cover the whole breast and to pay special attention to the area between the breast and the underarm,” says Susan.

■ Check the underarm, the area above the breast up to the collarbone, and all the way over to your shoulder. “A breast self-exam is checking the entire breast area, not just the fatty part of the breast,” Susan explains.

2. While standing in the shower, lather your fingers and breasts with soap and repeat the above process for each breast.

3. While standing in front of a mirror, look for any changes from normal.

Hold arms at your side. Hold arms over your head.

■ Press your hands on your hips and tighten your chest muscles.

■ Bend forward with your hands on your hips.

When to see your doctor

“One of the most frightening moments for a woman is if she sees or feels something different or unusual while performing breast self-examination,” Susan says. “If you find a lump, it is important not to panic. Call your healthcare provider to discuss next steps.”

There may be a valid reason for concern. Contact your provider if you

■ Discover lumpiness in one breast or feel something different in the tissue

Feel a definite lump Notice a change during your visual inspection, such as dimpling, skin puckering, nipple changes or skin changes.